Media Release from Labour's health spokesperson Grant Robertson

Access to affordable and quality health services is an essential part of achieving real equality, opportunity and choice for New Zealand women, according to Labour's health spokesperson Grant Robertson and associate health spokesperson Steve Chadwick.

"Yesterday's launch of Labour's women's policy highlights the importance of good health in enabling women to achieve their potential and recognises gender as a basic determinant of health," Grant Robertson said.

"A core element of this is the Maternity Action Plan which National has dragged its heels in implementing. Labour will ensure the plan is implemented and that maternal health services are aligned with other services," Steve Chadwick said.

"We will also prioritise support for breastfeeding and well child programmes that play such an important part in the first months and years of a child's life."

"There is a weight of evidence that shows the health and well-being of a mother has a major impact on the well-being of their children, and ultimately the community as a whole. Labour recognises this, and is making specific commitments to support mothers, including a free dental care package for pregnant women to help them set their children on a path to good oral health," Grant Robertson said.